In Memoriam: Dr. Margaret Hess (May 3, 1916 - Sept 2, 2016)

Community leader, internationally recognized art historian and lecturer, businesswoman and rancher Dr. Margaret (Marmie) Perkins Hess passed away peacefully on Friday, September 2, 2016 leaving a remarkable legacy of contributions to the quality and fabric of life in Calgary, Alberta and Canada.

Earlier this year Marmie celebrated her 100 birthday with friends, colleagues and associates at the Rotary Club.

She will be dearly missed by the many people and organizations impacted by her incredible contributions as a friend, mentor, advocate, volunteer and philanthropist.

Throughout her lifetime, Marmie was described as the quintessential 'western' Canadian who was a proud champion of her heritage and culture.

Born and raised in Calgary, Marmie had a lifelong love for education. In 1934 she began her post-secondary studies at the University of Alberta and graduated from the University of Toronto in 1938 with a Bachelor of Arts. In Toronto, Marmie met several members of the Group of Seven who encouraged her love for art and her strong interest in the Canadian wilderness.

She began her teaching career during World War II at the Provincial Institute of Technology and Art (now SAIT and ACAD) as well as the Banff School of Fine Arts. She completed her post-graduate studies at the University of Iowa in 1947.